Make healthy food fun – Explore the variety of foods that’s available in your local area and don’t be afraid to experiment. Include lots of vegetables and fruit, the more colourful, the healthier it will be!
The NHS says ‘children whose parents encourage them to be active and eat well are more likely to stay a healthy weight and grow up healthy.’ Studies like this have also shown that primary-aged children who eat a healthy breakfast do well at school.
It’s can be hard enough getting something healthy into our own bellies, so how do we make it easy and affordable to do the same with our kids, whatever their age? Often half the battle is helping our kids understand why eating a range of healthy foods – and not as many sweets and snacks – is important.
Try to gather the whole family around the table – schedule at least one meal per day or if this is not possible due to work or other commitments, try to do this a few times a week. Make it a family goal or household rule.
Involve children in the cooking – give them responsibilities in helping prep and cook alongside you. This will show you trust them and want to spend time together.
Be a positive role model – have positive attitude and habits around food. This will encourage better eating habits.
Choose healthier methods of cooking – grilling, roasting, boiling and steaming are good options. BBQs can also be healthier but also fun.
Plan meals in advance – involve the children in the planning and buying/sourcing the food. Draw or write down meals, have charts and pictures to make this more fun and engaging for little ones.
Avoid forcing food – provide choices as a way of encouraging and making them part of the decision making. Be creative with food to make it more attractive.
Create routines – children like routines and know what to expect as this gives them a sense of security, as well as helps develop regular patterns of appetite.
Limit portion sizes – avoid using food as a reward or bribe as this can undermine the healthy eating habits you are trying to teach.
